Mustard-Grilled Chicken
Tender chicken glazed with a spicy mustard and cayenne marinade, perfect for grilling and delivering bold flavors. This dish is ideal for summer barbecues or casual gatherings, offering a smoky, tangy taste with a hint of heat that appeals to spice lovers and grilled chicken enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, stir together 1/3 cup of the Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper, vegetable oil, and white wine vinegar.
- Place the chicken in a large lock-top plastic bag and pour in the mustard mixture.
- Press out the air and seal the bag tightly.
- Massage gently to distribute the marinade evenly over the chicken.
- Set the bag in a large bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, turning and rubbing the bag occasionally.
- Prepare a fire for indirect-heat cooking in a covered grill.
- Combine the remaining 1/3 cup of mustard with the remaining 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper to make the mustard-cayenne mixture.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing as much marinade as possible to cling to the surface.
- Place the chicken, skin side down, in the center of the grill rack.
- Grill, turning frequently, for about 25 minutes.
- Turn the chicken skin side up and brush it with the mustard-cayenne mixture.
- Cover the grill, open the vents halfway, and cook until opaque throughout and the juices run clear, about 10 minutes longer.
- If necessary, cut the chicken into smaller portions, then transfer to warmed individual plates and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding additional spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to the marinade. If Dijon mustard isn't available, yellow mustard can be substituted, although the flavor will be milder. Make sure to let the chicken marinate for the full 2 hours to enhance the flavor and tenderness. Always check chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to at least 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mustard-grilled chicken alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with James' Favorite Chicken And Rice for a comforting side dish. Consider adding a tangy dipping sauce or a light vinaigrette to enhance the dish further. Enjoy with a chilled white wine to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can briefly reheat it on the grill over low heat to maintain its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mustard-Grilled Chicken contains roughly 187 calories, with 8g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (110% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken pieces work well for this recipe. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly, as smaller pieces will cook faster. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper to the marinade or include hot sauce in the mustard-cayenne mixture. You can also marinate the chicken longer to allow the flavors to penetrate deeper.
Can I grill this chicken indoors?
If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or a broiler in your oven. Just ensure good ventilation and monitor the cooking closely since indoor grilling can vary in heat distribution.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).